It was all cheer and joy for the Seychelles Civil Aviation Authority team at Freedom Square when they scooped first prize in the best local float category in the 2015 Carnaval International de Victoria.

A representative of the organization, Lina Laurence, said her team has put a lot of effort in mounting their float with a theme, “When the ocean meets the sky, there spawns an abundance of opportunities.”

With such a theme, the Seychelles Civil Aviation Authority was promoting the concept of an underwater resort.

President of the Republic James Michel was on stage to reward the Seychelles Civil Aviation Authority with their prize of R35,000.

Second prize in this category went to United Concrete Products Seychelles. They won R25,000 as a cash prize.

The Jj Spirit Foundation amazed the spectators with their colorful float and mesmerizing performances, and they were able to settle into the third position, winning a cash prize of R15,000.

“The Civil Aviation of Seychelles understands the importance for Seychelles tourism and all that touches tourism to help keep Seychelles visible at all times. They were an example with so many international press in Seychelles. The direct benefits for the Civil Aviation Authority is debatable, but the benefits for the country and its tourism industry is massive, and this is what we say thank you to the SCAA for, understanding this and for working with the Tourism Board during carnival time.

“The airport is dependent on a solid tourism industry, and their effort, as well as the effort by all the local Seychelles floats and delegations at the last carnival, is recognized and appreciated,” said Minister Alain St.Ange in the presence of Sherin Naiken, the CEO of the Tourism Board.

Seychelles is a founding member of the International Coalition of Tourism Partners (ICTP) .